Community-supported agriculture

Farmers invest a lot of money and time into their farming practices before they reap the benefits, which does not come without risks. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a production and marketing model where consumers can buy shares of a farm’s harvest in advance. At the start of the growing season, consumers can become CSA members by agreeing on a lump sum or in instalments. The cost usually depends on the harvest season, variety, and quantity of products. The upfront to the farm facilitates purchasing the seed and other inputs necessary for the farmer to have an income to grow the produce, and with that reduces financial risk for the farmer. This solidarity model also relieves the farmer of extra time for marketing and CSA members share in the risk of production. This allows the farmer to concentrate on good land stewardship and growing high quality food. In return for their membership fee, consumers receive a variety of freshly produced food, vegetables and fruits on a weekly basis. This results in a varied diet with freshly produced healthy diet on the consumer side.